Foot strikes vary widely in elite runners

Paul Ingraham • Jun 11, 2014 ARCHIVED

What do scads of foot strike photos from 10k olympic trials say about barefoot running? This is smoking gun evidence … of exactly nothing. Briana Rognlin:

The foot strikes, paired next to each athlete’s place and time in the trials, vary widely. But they all belong to elite athletes who, whether they made it to the Olympics or not, are amongst the world’s most talented runners. And yet, some clearly drive their heels into the ground, some land squarely on their forefoot, and others seem to practically land on their pinkie toes.

So that clears that up. http://painscience.com for original article

Synopsis by:

Dr. Mark Rathjen PT, DPT CSCS

CORE Physical Therapy and Sports Performance, PC

Omaha NE.

It is often a misnomer to say one technique is the best whether it be with squat form, running technique, or any fundamental movement pattern. More often the case is that every person based on a variety of factors, has an innate efficient pattern for their own body type. An individual should strive to maintain their most efficient pattern of movement given the body proportions, weight distribution, limb length and symmetry among many other factors.

In summary, Is there a perfect way to run? yes…. but each individual must strive for their perfect movement pattern, not some other athletes… A great running coach and physical therapy should be able to guide you with gait mechanics, symmetry of motion, motor training and stride optimization for your own body type.

After all, your gait pattern is as unique as your finger print…